Downtown Redmond Link Extension: A New Era of Connectivity

On May 10, 2025, the Downtown Redmond Link Extension opened to the public, marking a major leap forward for Redmond, Washington community and surrounding areas. Designed by Jacobs and delivered with Sound Transit, the 3.4-mile project promises faster, more sustainable commutes and improved access across the region, along with local connections to expanded retail options; community support services, including three local hospitals; and recreational favorites like Marymoor Park.

The extension includes two new light rail stations—one elevated and one at-grade—along with 0.9 miles of elevated track, retained cut and at-grade guideway. It connects directly to Sound Transit’s existing 2 Line, enabling uninterrupted travel throughout the Eastside. The route spans the Sammamish River and Bear Creek, integrating seamlessly into the natural and built environments.

Jacobs led key aspects of project delivery, including environmental compliance, wetland and stream mitigation for Bear Creek, seismic and urban design, landscape architecture and streetscape enhancements. The team also coordinated with the Sound Transit Art Program to integrate the work of 12 artists into the station designs, creating a more welcoming and community-focused transit experience.

Lasting community impacts

The new link is expected to serve between 43,000 and 52,000 daily riders by 2026. With projected travel times of just 15 minutes between Marymoor Village Station and Bellevue Downtown Station, the extension provides a reliable alternative to car travel, easing congestion and supporting a more sustainable urban footprint.

The project also received the prestigious Envision Platinum Award, recognizing excellence in sustainable infrastructure. Highlights include strong stakeholder engagement, use of renewable energy and environmental protections during construction—making the extension a model for climate-forward transportation solutions.

“The opening of the Downtown Redmond Link Extension is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation and sustainability,” says Jacobs Transportation Market Growth Director –Northwest Jennifer Bassett-Hales. “As Sound Transit and Jacobs celebrate this milestone, the community can look forward to a future of supporting a cleaner, faster, more connected future for the region.”

Over the past two years, Jacobs has delivered nearly $200 million in transportation final design across the Puget Sound region, including Sound Transit’s Link 2 Line and 1 Line extension to Lynnwood. With more than 1,100 local staff—250 dedicated to transit design—Jacobs brings deep local knowledge and agency relationships. From early planning to final design, we’ve played a key role at every step of the region’s transit expansion.